[feb] Lithium deposits in Mandya district(Karnataka)

Question 1

Context?

Answer 1

Atomic Minerals Directorate for Exploration and Research (AMD) have shown presence of Lithium resources of 1,600 tonnes in the pegmatites of Marlagalla – Allapatna area, Mandya district, Karnataka.

Question 2

About Lithium?

Answer 2

It is a soft, silvery-white metal. Under standard conditions, it is the lightest metal and the lightest solid element.

It is highly reactive and flammable, and must be stored in mineral oil. It is an alkali metal and a rare metal.

Question 3

Characteristics?

Answer 3

• highest specific heat capacity of any solid
• single balance electron -> good conductor of electricity
• flammable -> explode when exposed to air&water

Question 4

Uses?

Answer 4

• new technologies,ceramics, glass, telecommunication and aerospace industries.
• Lithium ion batteries, lubricating grease, high energy additive to rocket propellants, optical modulators for mobile phones and as convertor to tritium used as a raw material for thermonuclear reactions i.e. fusion.

Question 5

what are Prescribed substance?

Answer 5

• “Prescribed substance” under the Atomic Energy Act, 1962 which permits AMD for exploration of Lithium in various geological domains of the country.
• Ex:uranium, plutonium, thorium, beryllium, deuterium or any of their respective derivatives or compounds